Big French Key

BIG FRENCH KEY (BFK) is located about a quarter of a mile from the main island of Roatan Honduras. There are two "French Keys." next to each other. Little French Key (LFK) and Big French Key. In the 1760s, Big French Key was believed to be originally settled by a Frenchman, hence its name. Over the course of time, an estimated 20 families called BFK home. By 1974 (when the present owners purchased BFK) only one family remained. In recent years, Big French Key has experienced a complete makeover. One side of Big French Key is set aside for vacation rentals. The other side serves as a stunning tourist destination. The family-oriented cay offers its visitors the chance to engage in a variety of water sports.

BFK Attractions

Kayaking

Paddle-boarding

Snorkeling

Dining

Lounging

THINGS TO DO ON BIG FRENCH KEY

BFK offers some of the clearest waters around Roatan in the world. Come indulge in island-style cuisine, dive into the Mayatlantis (a scenic underwater museum with replica structures from the Mayan civilization), share at the free kid’s fun center, and be served by what is arguably the friendliest staff in Roatan. Whether you come to relax and lounge in the hammocks on the white sandy beach, or have some drinks and amazing cocktails at the swim-up huts, a visit to this hidden gem will never disappoint. There is also paddle-boarding available as well as snorkeling in and around the majestic coral reefs which forms part of the Mesoamerican Reef System.

PRO TIP: The famous mayatlantis underwater museum is not directly associated with Big French Key. The museum is an attraction that is associated with neighboring Little French Key. One must first go to Little French Key or Frenchy's 44 in order to purchase passes for the beautiful mayatlantis underwater museum.

Many come to BFK for the dinning, to lounge around on their hammocks, or to string a piñata for a kids birthday party. This small key is perfect for families of all sizes and it is especially welcoming of cruise ship guests looking for a one day excursion on their very own paradise cay.

PRO TIP: Bring water shoes. This is especially a good idea for kids as some areas are filled with rocks and desiccated corals.

BFK Location

CLOSEST DOCK:

NAME: Lionfish Landing

Duration: 5 to 10 min.

Size: approx. 11 acres

DIRECTIONS TO BIG FRENCH KEY

Big French Key is a private cay, about 11 and ½ acres in size, surrounded by breathtaking turquoise waters and is located along the southern coast of Roatan Island. Visitors have to take an easy 5 to 10-minute boat ride from Lion Fish Landing (dock), located on the main island, to get to the Cay. Lion Fish Landing is next to Frenchy’s 44 and close to Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hang Out.

Big French Key Map

Getting to BFK (Directions)

How do you get to Big French Key?

If arriving on a cruise ship, the best option is to book a tour with Roatan Online or directly with an approved cruise ship shore excursion guide. Make sure your fees include the 20 to 30-minute bus ride from the cruise port to the shuttle boat at Lion Fish Landing that will take you to BFK. The shuttle boat fee is usually included in the tour/package cruisers buy to visit BFK. Ask your shore excursion department for details.

If staying locally, visitors can arrange with their local accommodations to have a taxi pick them up and drop them off at the shuttle boat at Lion Fish Landing. The taxi fee from West Bay or West End will vary between 250 Lempiras ($12.5) and 600 Lempiras ($30) roundtrip depending on the distance between the hotel and Lion Fish Landing. The boat from the dock at Lion Fish Landing to BFK will cost around $10, and it includes admission to the cay.

PRO TIP: Bring small bills and be sure your money is not physically damaged. Bills with tears or imperfections can and often do get rejected. Many locals also reject $20 dollar bills as this bill is often replicated.

Cost-Breakdown

Admission Only

Snorkeling Tours

Kayak Tours

Kids 5 or less enter free

BUDGETING FOR BFK

If you’re looking to visit the island of Roatan for the day via a cruise ship, you can expect to pay a per person rate which is based on the number of people in your party. The rate might also depend on the age of each visitors. The type of package/tour you choose will also impact your price. Rates can vary from cruise ship to cruise ship, so consider booking your excursion with a local approved Tour Guide. Children who are 5 and under enter free. The use of the snorkeling gear and kayaks is included in the all-inclusive tours (a security deposit is required in case you damage the equipment). We recommend you contact us about your shore excursion ahead of your travels to check on what packages might be available.

DON'T FORGET:

Weddings & Events

Floral arrangements

Photographers

Custom Menu's

Plan you next event on Big French Key

Do you want to get married on a private island with palm trees, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters? BFK’s gorgeous beach and large palapa are perfect for a romantic beach wedding. To achieve the wedding of your dreams, BFK has partnered with one of the top wedding planners in Roatan. BFK will provide superb quality and comfortable prices for wedding cakes, florals, decorations, music, entertainment, photographer and many more features. They will assist you in creating a magical day with innovative floral designs, personalized color themes, linens of any kind and a custom menu tailored to your taste and budget.Contact BFK for more details.